Update from Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue:
‘Multiple crews from Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue have been tackling a roof fire in a block of flats on Poole Road, Bournemouth this morning (16 December).
Following the initial 999 call received at 7.12am, approx. 60 firefighters were mobilised to the scene – from Westbourne, Springbourne, Redhill Park, Christchurch (x2), Poole (x3) and Ferndown, together with Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service crews from Ringwood, Wimborne, New Milton and Burley.
Also on scene are the aerial ladder platform from Westbourne, support appliances from Hamworthy and Dorchester, and a water carrier from Poole.
A total of 62 residents have been evacuated from the affected part of the building, with 21 rescued by firefighters. Three people have suffered smoke inhalation and have been treated at the scene by South Western Ambulance Service.
The nearby Premier Inn hotel has been providing shelter for those displaced, and officers from BCP Council are also attending to support those needing help.
The fire is now contained but firefighting operations are likely to continue for much of the day. Poole Road is currently closed and will remain so for some hours.
DWFRS officers are liaising with colleagues from partner agencies including Dorset Police and BCP Council to ensure that the incident is brought to a safe conclusion as quickly as possible.
A fire investigation will be carried out later today but there are not thought to be any suspicious circumstances.’
Well done to the Premier Inn staff at Westbourne for sounding the alarms and emptying the hotel quickly.
Fire next door to the hotel was getting bigger rather quickly.
Never seen tiles sliding of a roof before. Fire Service did an amazing job. 8 fire engines at the last count.
#cyeckyourfirealarm #firesafety #fire
Harry Rochet
